Ohio Department of Aging Holds First Assisted Living Feedback Forum in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Beginning its tour around the state, the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) held its first Assisted Living Feedback Forum at the Longaberger Alumni House on The Ohio State University's campus on Wednesday afternoon.

The session was an opportunity for citizens to provide their thoughts about assisted living facilities in the state. Attendees included assisted living residents and their families, facility staff and administrators, other health care workers, state ombudsmen, and more.

During Wednesday's two-hour Feedback Forum, Ohioans were able to discuss their experiences in selecting an assisted living facility in small groups with ODA staff. In the second hour, they were shown mock-ups of "Version 2.0" of what is currently called Ohio's Nursing Home Quality Navigator and asked to give feedback on ways to incorporate assisted living into the Navigator's interface.

The Navigator, announced and launched in February at a press conference by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy, is an online tool providing users with detailed information about nursing homes across the state in one convenient digital location. Navigator Version 2.0, set to be released later this year, will be updated to include assisted living facilities, among other features.

Feedback Forums are scheduled to be held in the following communities:

• Dayton (August 13)
• Cincinnati (August 14)
• Bowling Green (August 20)
• Youngstown (August 29)
• Cleveland (September 5)

Click here to register to attend a Feedback Forum.

A full schedule of in-person Feedback Forums and more details are available at aging.ohio.gov/alff.

About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.